Hagåtña, Guam – On March 10, 2025, multiple Government of Guam agencies, led by the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR), joined forces for a large-scale cleanup at Hensa Beach in Pago Bay, Yoña. This initiative, supported by the Islandwide Beautification Task Force (IBTF), aimed to restore the beach’s cleanliness and safety, ensuring the public can once again enjoy its scenic beauty.
The cleanup effort resulted from a collaborative approach following a February site assessment led by newly elected Yoña Mayor BJ Terlaje. Representatives from DPR, the Department of Public Works (DPW), the Division of Homelessness Assistance and Poverty Prevention (DHAPP), private property owners, and Chalan Pago-Ordot Mayor Wayne Santos conducted a walkthrough and determined that the area was affected by widespread litter, abandoned vehicles, white goods, and remnants of an encampment across public and private property, extending to the shoreline.
With a coordinated plan in place, DPR mobilized resources, and cleanup efforts began on March 8 and 9. DPW removed eight abandoned vehicles and a significant amount of discarded appliances, while Department of Corrections inmates assisted in gathering and staging these materials for disposal.
“After speaking with Mayor Terlaje and concerned private owners of the adjoining property, it was clear that we could do something impactful for Yoña and all of Guam with the cleanup. I used to fish here growing up, and I know this beach is an asset to the village. Once the Lieutenant Governor gave his blessing, we got to work right away,” said DPR Park Police Superintendent Joey Terlaje.
“This cleanup is a testament to what we can accomplish when government agencies, private landowners, and community leaders come together for a common goal. Hensa Beach is a beautiful space that deserves to be restored, and through continued partnerships, we will ensure that it remains safe, clean, and accessible for all. The IBTF remains committed to supporting initiatives like this that enhance the quality of life for our people and preserve the natural beauty of our island,” said Lt. Governor Josh Tenorio, head of the IBTF. “Moving forward, DPR will continue working with property owners and local leaders to ensure the cleanup efforts are sustained, keeping Hensa Beach safe and accessible for all.”
The main cleanup took place on Monday, March 10, with over 100 volunteers from DPR, the Department of Agriculture, DHAPP, Guam EPA, the Guam National Guard Talon Task Force and the Bureau of Statistics and Plans (BSP). Volunteers carefully sorted green waste, plastics, and other debris for proper disposal. Private property owners at Pago Bay Estates played a crucial role by providing haul-off services, portable restrooms, equipment, and tools. To show their appreciation, Pago Bay HOA, along with the mayors of Yoña and Chalan Pago-Ordot, provided food and refreshments for the hardworking volunteers.
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